Program at a glance

How much does it cost? 

Learn more about how to afford a degree from the University of Nevada, Reno.

How long does it take?

This 126 credit program is designed to be completed in four years.

How do I apply?

Open to all undergraduate students. Learn how to apply to the University of Nevada, Reno.

What will I learn in a mechanical engineering degree program?

The bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering is broadly designed to accommodate a variety of career goals. Students take a core of required courses in engineering, the humanities, mathematics and science, as well as supplementary elective courses. These courses introduce basic engineering science and design concepts and provide students with the opportunity to develop specific career interests in sub-fields of mechanical engineering such as renewable energy, nanotechnology or biomedical engineering.

Our program gives you the chance to work closely with distinguished faculty and get hands-on experience as you move from building Lego cars as a freshman to designing a functional prototype of your own choosing as a senior. You can take advantage of two teaching labs as well as a full-service machine and welding shop used for student projects and research equipment.

Successful engineering students arrive at the University with a strong background in math and science. We recommend students have taken physics and chemistry courses in high school and are prepared to take calculus as freshmen.

View the program's educational objectives and student learning outcomes for the bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering.

Senior capstone project

In the College of Engineering, hands-on learning starts on day one. The first engineering class, Engineering 100, will challenge you to work in teams to design a hovercraft capable of traversing across a pre-set course. And in your final class before you graduate, you will work in a team to develop a product that’s ready for the marketplace. Your senior capstone project will be presented to potential employers at the annual Innovation Day, In between, you’ll gain hands-on experience in classrooms and research laboratories, putting your science and mathematical knowledge to work solving engineering problems.

Learn more about the mechanical engineering department

If it moves, a mechanical engineer probably had something to do with it.From automobiles, airplanes and space shuttles to robots, artificial limbs and biochips – all moving and transforming our future.

Specializations in the mechanical engineering program

Take the next step

Careers with a degree in mechanical engineering

Median starting salaries of $67,744

You can afford the University of Nevada, Reno

76% of students receive financial aid

Almost everyone is eligible to receive some kind of aid. We offer need-based and merit-based forms of financial aid to help you afford college.

54% of all students graduate with no debt

That's right. More than half of our students leave the University of Nevada, Reno with no student debt.

Life's a journey. Honors makes it meaningful.

At the University of Nevada, Reno Honors College, our students maximize their unique gifts and passions through a series of personalized experiences that deepen their capacity for transformative societal impact.

Visit the Honors College
Four honors students standing near Manzanita Lake; one is holding a soccer ball.